MWEWA CHITAMBALA GIVEN VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE AS TRADERS THREATEN PROTESTS OVER PLANNED DEMOLITIONS.
Lusaka National Marketer Credit Association Coordinator Nicholas Mambwe, popularly known as Nico-Shine, says traders will take to the streets in protest should authorities proceed with plans to demolish their containers and shops in markets.
Mr Mambwe says there must be sufficient room for negotiations, sensitisation and dialogue between authorities and affected traders before any demolition exercise is undertaken.
He has also disclosed that traders have given Lusaka Mayor Mwewa Chitambala a vote of no confidence over the handling of issues affecting market traders.
Mr Mambwe said although the intention to clean up and bring order to Lusaka is understandable, authorities must not overlook the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on informal trading to support their families.
He said it was worrying that traders were now facing possible demolitions in markets where some of them had been directed to establish their businesses.
Mr Mambwe explained that many traders had invested their personal savings and borrowed money to construct their shops and containers, warning that demolishing the structures without proper consultation and alternative arrangements could leave many families in financial difficulties.
In an appeal to the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Mambwe questioned where affected traders would be expected to conduct their businesses if their structures were removed without clear relocation plans.
He maintained that some trading areas required proper regulation, planning and development rather than outright demolition.
“People are willing to comply with regulations and relocate where necessary. All they need is proper direction, consultation and leadership,” Mr Mambwe said.
He urged Government to provide adequate notice to affected traders, establish clear guidelines on acceptable trading structures and engage market leadership before implementing any demolition plans.
Mr Mambwe further called for alternative trading spaces to be identified to ensure that traders are not left stranded.
He said the pursuit of a clean and organised city should not come at the expense of people’s livelihoods, adding that urban development must be balanced with the economic survival of ordinary citizens.
The association has warned that traders could resort to protests if authorities proceed with the demolitions without addressing their concerns.
Zambian Watch.